This blog will walk you through what CLO 3D is, how it works, its standout features, and why it has become a must-have tool for modern fashion professionals.

What is CLO 3D?

CLO 3D, developed by CLO Virtual Fashion, is a professional-grade 3D fashion design software built to simulate garments with impressive accuracy. Unlike traditional CAD tools, CLO 3D mimics the real-life garment-making process in a digital space. Designers can build patterns, stitch them together, and instantly see how their creations look and move in 3D.

The software is used across the fashion industry—from designers and pattern makers to merchandisers and manufacturers. Whether it’s conceptual fashion or technical sportswear, CLO 3D helps bring ideas to life with precision and speed.

Features That Set It Apart

One of CLO 3D’s biggest strengths is its realistic fabric simulation. The software replicates how fabrics drape, stretch, and react to movement, allowing designers to preview their work as if it were already made. This is incredibly useful for prototyping, presentations, and marketing visuals.

It also offers seamless 2D-to-3D integration. You can create and adjust 2D patterns and instantly visualize them on a 3D avatar. It supports popular file formats like .DXF, making it compatible with industry-standard workflows.

Pattern making and grading are efficient and flexible, allowing you to modify styles, adjust fits, and create size variations without having to redo everything manually.

CLO 3D offers rich fabric and texture customization, complete with a vast library and Adobe Substance 3D integration for hyper-realistic surfaces. Users can tweak fabric weight, elasticity, and color to match their design vision.

It even includes AI tools, like the Catalyst AI Designer, which can generate 3D garments from simple sketches or inputs. A built-in AI chatbot helps users troubleshoot and explore features on the fly.

For teamwork, CLO-SET allows you to share 3D assets and collaborate with global teams. The CLO-SET Connect marketplace provides downloadable resources like patterns, fabrics, and avatars to speed up your workflow.

Designs can be exported to other popular 3D platforms such as Blender, Maya, and KeyShot—making it useful beyond fashion for animation, gaming, and virtual experiences like digital fashion shows and e-commerce try-ons.

Why Designers Love It

CLO 3D cuts down on physical sampling, saving time, money, and materials. Design iterations are faster, which shortens the production timeline significantly.

It’s also a win for sustainability. By switching to virtual prototypes, designers reduce fabric waste and lower the carbon footprint of the product development process.

The platform fosters creative freedom, allowing experimentation with cuts, silhouettes, and fabrics without the limits of physical materials. And because it supports everything from apparel to accessories and footwear, the possibilities are endless.

Interface and Usability

CLO 3D’s interface is user-friendly and logically organized. The workspace is divided into a 3D Garment Window, a 2D Pattern Window, and an Object Browser, with customization options to suit individual preferences.

New users can get started with tutorials, webinars, and online resources via the CLO Academy. There’s also a 30-day free trial to explore its features hands-on.

The software is compatible with both Intel and Apple Silicon Macs, though it runs best with a dedicated GPU and at least 4GB of VRAM for smooth performance.

Who’s Using CLO 3D?

CLO 3D is used by top fashion brands, design studios, and even gaming companies. It’s a go-to tool for creating production-ready garments and virtual assets for e-commerce. Schools and universities around the world have also integrated CLO 3D into their fashion design curriculums, training the next generation of digital designers.

In gaming and animation, CLO 3D’s compatibility with Marvelous Designer makes it ideal for creating realistic CG clothing for characters, further expanding its relevance beyond fashion alone.

How It Compares to Other Tools

While tools like Maya or 3ds Max are great for general 3D modeling, CLO 3D is built specifically for garment creation, making it more intuitive for fashion tasks. It’s closely related to Marvelous Designer, but with added features like grading and PLM system integration—key for production use.

It also works smoothly with rendering and texturing tools like KeyShot, V-Ray, and Substance 3D, making it easy to plug into broader design and animation pipelines.

Things to Keep in Mind

There is a bit of a learning curve, especially for those new to 3D modeling. If you prefer guided practice, SEFT’s CLO 3D and Digital Draping course is one way to build these skills. A strong GPU is needed to ensure lag-free simulation and rendering. Also, CLO 3D and CLO-SET require separate licenses, which can be a consideration for budget-conscious teams.

While CLO’s internal rendering is solid, some professionals prefer external renderers for ultra-high-quality visuals.

The future of fashion is 3D. And with CLO, it’s already here.

The post What Is CLO 3D? The Future of Fashion Design Software Explained appeared first on Seft.

What are the Top Indian Fashion Brands?

Fabindia

Fabindia, founded in 1960 by John Bissell, began as an exporter of home furnishings before venturing into retail in 1976. Known for its handmade ethnic wear, home décor, and organic products, it sources its items from over 55,000 artisans across rural India, supporting sustainable livelihoods. Fabindia has grown into a leading brand in the sustainable fashion and lifestyle space, with more than 300 stores across India and 14 internationally.

Brand Value : ₹2300 crores+

Biba

Founded in 1988 by Meena Bindra, BIBA is one of India’s leading ethnic wear brands. Known for its wide range of women’s apparel, BIBA offers a blend of traditional Indian styles with modern influences. The brand has grown significantly, expanding its reach with over 300 exclusive stores and around 500 department store outlets across India​

Brand Value : ₹750 crores+

W for Woman

W for Woman is a leading Indian fashion brand owned by TCNS Clothing Co. Ltd., founded in 1972 by Trilok Chand and Narender Singh. Initially focused on exports, the company entered the domestic market with the launch of W in 2001. The brand opened its first store in Lajpat Nagar, Delhi, and quickly became a household name for blending tradition with modernity. TCNS Clothing also owns other popular brands like Aurelia, Wishful, Folksong, and Elleven. In 2024, the company merged with Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Ltd. (ABFRL).

Brand Value : ₹600 crores+

Manyavar

Founded by Ravi Modi in 1999, Manyavar transformed men’s ethnic wear into a signature style, evolving into a global brand with over 600 stores across 240 cities and five countries. Initially focused on wedding wear, the brand expanded its offerings to include a wide range of celebration attire, including kids’ ethnic wear, and became synonymous with elegant, timeless designs. Supported by a strong marketing strategy and high-profile celebrity endorsements, such as Ranveer Singh, Amitabh Bachchan, and Kiara Advani, Manyavar has grown into a leading name in Indian celebration wear.

Brand Value : ₹5,500 crores+

Ritu Kumar

Ritu Kumar, a pioneer of Indian fashion, began her journey in the 1960s while studying art history and museology. She discovered a group of hand-block printers in Serampore, West Bengal, and created beautiful hand-block printed sarees. In 1966, she opened her first boutique in New Delhi, blending traditional Indian textiles with modern designs to create a unique global aesthetic. Ritu Kumar played a key role in reviving India’s indigenous crafts, showcasing them as high fashion, and introduced techniques like Kamalmakri and Chikankari in her groundbreaking 1991 fashion show, “Tree of Life.” In 2002, she launched the “LABEL Ritu Kumar” brand for young, fashion-forward women. Her contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri in 2013 and the “Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres” from the French government. Reliance Retail acquired a 52% stake in the Ritu Kumar brand in 2022

Brand Value : ₹300 crores+

Pantaloons

Madura Garments, founded in 1988, was acquired by the Aditya Birla Group in 1999 and rebranded as Madura Fashion & Lifestyle in 2010. In 2015, the company consolidated its apparel businesses, renaming Pantaloons as Aditya Birla Fashion & Retail Ltd. (ABFRL). ABFRL now stands as India’s leading fashion powerhouse, with a diverse portfolio of over 100 brands, including Louis Philippe, Van Heusen, and Allen Solly, and an extensive network of stores across India. It also partners with international brands like Ralph Lauren and Forever 21 and operates digital-first brands under TMRW, catering to a growing eCommerce market. Pantaloons, a key division of ABFRL, offers youthful and dynamic fashion with more than 400 stores nationwide.

Brand Value :  ₹4,000 crores+

Allen Solly

Allen Solly, originally founded in England in 1744, launched in India in 1993 under the Madura Fashion & Lifestyle division of Aditya Birla Fashion & Retail Ltd. The brand is credited with pioneering the ‘smart casuals’ segment in India, offering a fusion of relaxed yet stylish formalwear. It gained significant popularity through its “Friday Dressing” concept, which revolutionized the Indian workwear landscape by blending casual and formal styles. Allen Solly is not only known for its innovative marketing but also for its extensive presence across India, with products for men, women, and children, and its exclusive license to market Wimbledon-branded apparel​.As of 2024, Aditya Birla Fashion & Retail Limited (ABFRL) reported a revenue of ₹13,996 crores, reflecting a 13% year-on-year growth​

Brand Value : ₹600 – 700 crore+

Peter England

Peter England, founded in 1889 in the UK, initially gained prominence by outfitting British soldiers during the Boer War. In the 1960s, it revolutionized shirt manufacturing with a polyester-cotton blend, becoming Europe’s largest shirt manufacturer. After a series of mergers, the brand was acquired by Coats Viyella in the late 20th century, and its Magherafelt factory was closed in the 1990s. Peter England entered the Indian market in 1997 and was acquired by Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail in 2000. Today, it is one of India’s leading menswear brands, with over 600 exclusive brand outlets across the country, while its operations in the UK are handled by the M2C2 Group.

Brand Value : ₹1000 crores+

Being Human

The Being Human Foundation, founded by Salman Khan in 2007, is dedicated to improving education and healthcare for the underprivileged in India. The foundation receives funding from sales of Being Human-branded merchandise, with a reported profit of 120 crore by 2018, contributing 12-15 crore to charity. The foundation supports various initiatives, including the education of 500 children and vocational training for disabled individuals. It also funds healthcare projects like treating children with heart defects and providing drought relief in Maharashtra. Being Human Clothing, launched in 2012, aims to establish itself in the casualwear market with over 500 retail outlets and plans for global expansion, all while promoting social causes.

Brand Value : ₹250 crores+

AND

AND was founded 25 years ago by Anita Dongre to address the growing need for diverse and stylish options for ambitious women entering the workforce. The brand offers modern, global styles designed for the urban woman. With over 1,000 stores across four countries, Anita Dongre’s influence in the fashion industry continues to grow. Through her brands, including AND, Global Desi, and Anita Dongre Couture, she is committed to sustainability, ethical practices, and empowering women in rural India. Additionally, the brand prioritizes animal welfare, using cruelty-free materials and promoting a vegetarian ethos.

Brand Value : ₹1,400 crores+

Note: The brand values and financial details mentioned have been derived through analysis and research based on several estimates and reports available online. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, these figures may vary depending on the source and time of publication.

Top International Fashion Brands in India

Zara

Zara, founded in 1975 by Amancio Ortega and Rosalía Mera, revolutionized fashion with its rapid product turnaround, offering trendy, affordable apparel in just two weeks. Known for its fast-fashion model, Zara has a global presence and a strong commitment to sustainability and customer experience. The brand’s accomplishments include being named Retailer of the Year at the 2007 World Retail Awards and ranking on Interbrand’s 2021 list of best global brands.

Brand Value : ₹91,000 crores+

H&M

H&M entered the Indian market in 2015, opening its first store in New Delhi. By 2023, it expanded to 57 stores across 29 cities, becoming a prominent fast-fashion retailer. The brand is known for its affordable and trendy offerings, appealing to both young and professional shoppers. Its sustainability initiatives, such as recycling campaigns and eco-friendly clothing lines, resonate well with India’s growing environmental consciousness. Additionally, H&M’s integration of online and offline shopping channels ensures a seamless customer experience, further solidifying its market presence​

Brand Value : ₹78,000 crores+

Levi’s

Levi’s has established a strong presence in India, which is its largest market in Asia. The brand operates over 450 stores across more than 150 cities, showcasing its widespread reach in metropolitan and smaller markets. In 2023, Levi’s opened Asia’s largest store in Bengaluru, featuring the Levi’s Tailor Shop, offering customization and personalization options. Collaborations with Bollywood celebrities like Deepika Padukone highlight the brand’s alignment with local culture. Additionally, Levi’s focuses on sustainability and digital retail, further enhancing its appeal to Indian consumers​

Brand Value : ₹60,818 crores+

Adidas Originals

Adidas Originals has gained popularity in India through its mix of lifestyle and sportswear, highlighted by its iconic Trefoil logo and collaborations with Bollywood stars like Ranveer Singh. The brand has expanded through retail stores, e-commerce platforms like Myntra and Amazon, and a focus on the growing athleisure trend among India’s youthful population​

Brand Value : ₹1,30,363 crores+

Puma

Puma has a strong presence in India, with over 580 stores as of 2023. The brand’s mix of performance wear and athleisure appeals to India’s youthful, fashion-conscious market. In 2023, Puma expanded by opening 75 new stores, reinforcing its position as the top sports brand. The brand’s “Forever Faster” mantra is supported by local celebrity collaborations and a strong digital presence, connecting with tech-savvy consumers​

Brand Value : ₹72,992 crores+

Nike

Nike has strengthened its presence in India with flagship stores like its “Rise” store in Chennai, combining physical retail with advanced digital experiences. The brand leverages digital platforms such as the Nike App to engage consumers and meet the growing demand for sports and lifestyle products. Nike’s focus on both traditional and online channels positions it well to maintain its dominance in the competitive Indian market​

Brand Value : ₹2,60,000 crores+

Gucci

Gucci has expanded its luxury presence in India with stores in cities like Mumbai, including a flagship in the Jio World Plaza. This growth aligns with luxury brands capitalizing on the rising number of millionaires and the expanding luxury market in India. Gucci’s focus on high-end shopping malls is part of a broader strategy to increase visibility and accessibility. The brand’s move reflects India’s evolving retail landscape​

Brand Value : ₹1,30,000 crores+

Louis Vuitton

Louis Vuitton is a prestigious French luxury brand known for its signature luxury bags, luggage, and accessories. In India, the brand has significantly expanded, opening stores in key cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru. As of 2023, Louis Vuitton is enhancing its presence by opening a 7,500-square-foot store at Jio World Plaza in Mumbai, the largest in the country. This move aligns with the rising demand for luxury goods among India’s growing affluent population, which is expected to increase significantly in the coming years​

Brand Value : ₹2,18,000 crores+

Tommy Hilfiger

Tommy Hilfiger, a well-known American fashion brand, has a strong presence in India with its stylish yet classic clothing. Recently, the brand appointed Indian actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu as the face of its Spring/Summer 2023 women’s watch collection. The campaign highlights versatile designs that blend timeless style with modern touches, reflecting Tommy Hilfiger’s blend of tradition and contemporary fashion​

Brand Value : ₹830 crores+

Calvin Klein

Calvin Klein launched a new campaign in India for its Spring 2023 watch collection, featuring actress Disha Patani. The campaign showcases the brand’s minimalist and sensual design philosophy, with Patani modeling elegant timepieces like a rose gold watch with a sleek dial and a multifunction watch with subtle details. This collection highlights Calvin Klein’s commitment to combining modern sophistication with timeless style​

Brand Value : ₹1,245 crores+

Note: The brand values and financial details mentioned have been derived through analysis and research based on several estimates and reports available online. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, these figures may vary depending on the source and time of publication.

Emerging Indian Fashion Brands

Emerging Indian fashion brands are increasingly blending modern styles with traditional craftsmanship. Labels like House of Masaba, founded by Masaba Gupta, bring quirky prints and vibrant colors, making them a hit in the fusion wear category​. Other notable names include Doodlage, known for its eco-friendly approach by creating fashion from scrap textiles, and Raw Mango, which celebrates handwoven sarees and traditional Indian textiles​.Meanwhile, Fabindia continues to thrive with its focus on sustainable fashion, offering a blend of traditional Indian fabrics in modern silhouettes. These emerging brands are revolutionizing the industry, making a global impact with their unique styles and commitment to sustainability

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